Naseem Mughal, the charismatic actor behind the iconic Lulli Dakait in the blockbuster franchise 'Dhurandhar', has sparked a heated debate with his recent comments. In a resurfaced interview from December 2025, Mughal addressed the controversial label of 'propaganda' attached to the film by Dhruv Rathee. With a confident and defiant tone, Mughal dismissed the criticism, asserting that the film's success and popularity cannot be stopped by such accusations.
Mughal's response is particularly intriguing given the immense success of the 'Dhurandhar' franchise, which has amassed a global box office total of over Rs 1500 crore. The sequel, 'Dhurandhar: The Revenge', is currently dominating theaters, crossing the Rs 1500 crore mark and earning over Rs 950 crore in India alone. While 'Pushpa 2: The Rule' holds the top spot in India with over Rs 1200 crore in collections, 'Dhurandhar' and its sequel have undoubtedly left an indelible mark on the industry.
Mughal's statement, 'Toofan ko rok nahi sakte' (You cannot stop a storm), is a powerful metaphor that resonates with the film's impact. It suggests that despite the criticism, the 'Dhurandhar' franchise has become an unstoppable force, capturing the hearts and minds of audiences worldwide. This sentiment is further emphasized by the film's remarkable financial success, which defies the notion that propaganda can be easily dismissed.
The actor's response also highlights a deeper question about the nature of cinematic storytelling and its impact on society. Are films like 'Dhurandhar' merely entertainment, or do they have a more significant role to play in shaping public opinion and cultural narratives? Mughal's comments invite further exploration of the complex relationship between art, propaganda, and the power of storytelling.
In my opinion, Naseem Mughal's response is a testament to the resilience and influence of 'Dhurandhar' as a cultural phenomenon. It raises the question of whether some films are indeed propaganda, or if the term is being misused to dismiss powerful and impactful narratives. The actor's defiant stance also underscores the importance of artistic freedom and the need to protect diverse voices in cinema. This incident serves as a reminder that the line between entertainment and propaganda can be blurred, and it is essential to approach such discussions with a nuanced perspective.
